19 years old and jaw expanded?

Question

After having the palatial expander I had on for about two and a half months removed. I was not given a retainer due to the fact my ortho said I was good to go. I questioned the decision, and ortho answered it was because of my age of 19 it was only dental tipping. But I did however noticed my upper jaw cheekbones widen tremendously. Now It has been almost five months since the removal of my expander and the expansion in my jaw stayed widen.Did the bones widen or is my teeth pushing my cheekbones

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

The purpose of the expanders is to get the bone to expand, so you are right, it is not just the teeth that moved.  There likely is some tipping of the teeth as well, but the midline suture of the bone (roof of the mouth) CAN be opened up and expanded.Cheekbone affects are infrequent and often debated if trully present.  Without photos and xrays to compare, it is hard to say.

Brad Lockhart, DDS · Answer

Palatal expansion occurs along the midline suture of your palate and will most definitely affect the development of your midface (cheek bones). This expansion (if done slowly) is permanent. Palatal expansion benefits also include a broader smile and healthier airway, not to mention creating sufficient space to accommodate straightening your teeth around the arch.In short, your palatal expansion is development of bone, NOT movement of teeth.Good luck!

19 years old and jaw expanded?

Answers (2)